Ulta Complexion Crush Foundation Review

Ulta Complexion Crush Foundation
6.9
/ 10
Moisturizing
5.3 Humectancy icon Humectancy
8.5 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Ingredients

Ulta Complexion Crush Foundation Ingredients

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Full Ingredient List (INCI):

Water, Dimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Propanediol, Polyphenylsilsesquioxane, Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Isododecane, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Glycerin, Polysilicone-11, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Magnesium Sulfate, Quaternium-90 Bentonite, Phenoxyethanol, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Hydroxyacetophenone, Tocopheryl Acetate, Propylene Carbonate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Mica, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77492)
Review

Does Ulta Complexion Crush Foundation Work?

 
According to CreamScan's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Ulta Complexion Crush Foundation has to offer:
 
✅ Significant moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 6.9 out of 10.

  

Key Benefits of Ulta Complexion Crush Foundation

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Ulta Complexion Crush Foundation:
 

🔵🔵🔵 Rich Moisturizer with the Right Occlusivity for Dry Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Ulta Complexion Crush Foundation is highly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 6.9 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more occlusive. It has a moderate humectancy of 5.3 out of 10, primarily due to the substantial concentration of Propanediol (est. ≈4.0%), and a very high occlusivity of 8.5 out of 10, mainly due to the significant content of Dimethicone (est. ≈9.0%) and Phenyl Trimethicone (est. ≈6.0%).

This type of product, when used as a standalone moisturizer, can deliver a substantial level of occlusive hydration that is adequate for dry skin. The occlusive profile of Ulta Complexion Crush Foundation suggests a rich, thick texture, making it perfectly suited for dry skin.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the moisturizing rating calculation.

📌 Please note that this is not a complete list of benefits. We are in the process of enhancing our model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Things to Be Aware Of: Ulta Complexion Crush Foundation

 
CreamScan identified a few things to consider before adding Ulta Complexion Crush Foundation to your skincare routine:
 

⚠️ Best for Dry Skin - May Be Too Thick for Other Skin Types

With high occlusivity, this product is optimal for dry skin but may be too thick for combination and especially oily skin. Even on normal skin, it can feel too rich depending on the quantity applied, the environment, and individual preferences.

If you have oily, combination, or normal skin and are considering purchasing this product for the first time, it might be a good idea to try a sample before buying.

⚠️ Needs to Be Paired with Extra Humectants for Optimal Moisturizing Efficacy

An ideal moisturizer for any skin type should balance the right level of occlusivity (depending on skin type) with a significant amount of humectants, while Ulta Complexion Crush Foundation contains a moderate level of humectants.

People with dry skin would definitely benefit from adding more humectants to their moisturizing routine beyond what this product offers. If this is your only moisturizer, it may be worth including a humectant-rich product, such as a serum, in your skincare routine.

Pros & Cons of Ulta Complexion Crush Foundation

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Ulta Complexion Crush Foundation to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

🟩 Pros:

Rich moisturizer with the right level of occlusivity to moisturize dry skin
Rich texture well-suited for dry skin
 

⭕ Cons: 

⚠️ May feel too rich and thick on skin types other than dry
⚠️ Only if used as a standalone moisturizer - needs to be paired with extra humectants for optimal moisturizing efficacy
   

Summary: Ulta Complexion Crush Foundation

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that Ulta Complexion Crush Foundation
, as a moisturizer, provides a substantial level of occlusive hydration that is adequate for dry skin, delivered in a rich, thick texture.
 
That said, there are some things about Ulta Complexion Crush Foundation worth noting.
 
With its high occlusivity, Ulta Complexion Crush Foundation is ideal for dry skin but may feel too thick on other skin types. If you have oily, combination, or normal skin, it’s a good idea to try a sample before purchasing.
 
If you use this product as your only moisturizer in a routine, please note that it contains a limited amount of humectants. Regardless of your skin type, adding extra humectants can enhance optimal moisturizing efficacy. Therefore, it may be worth pairing Ulta Complexion Crush Foundation with a humectant-rich product, such as a serum, in your skincare routine.
 
📌 Fact check. At CreamScan, we are committed to accuracy and fairness. If you spot any errors or something that doesn’t seem right, please click here to let us know. We regularly update the ingredient lists and monitor the latest research on ingredient efficacy to ensure that our information remains as complete and precise as possible. The information provided here is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional advice. We do not guarantee the efficacy or safety of any product, as individual results may vary.

 

Ingredient Breakdown

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
65
9
6
4
3
2.5
2
1.5
1.3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Phenyl Trimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Propanediol
Function:
Origin:
Polyphenylsilsesquioxane
Function:
Origin:
Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Trimethylsiloxysilicate
Function:
Origin:
Isododecane
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexyl Palmitate
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Polysilicone-11
Function:
Origin:
Disteardimonium Hectorite
Function:
Origin:
Magnesium Sulfate
Function:
Origin:
Quaternium-90 Bentonite
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer
Function:
Origin:
Polyhydroxystearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Triethoxycaprylylsilane
Function:
Origin:
Hydroxyacetophenone
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Propylene Carbonate
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Mica
Function:
Origin:
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Function:
Origin:
Iron Oxides (CI 77492)
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
5.3
4
1
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
17.0
9.0
6.0
2.0
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
6.9
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 5.3 10
5.3
4
1
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 17.0 20
8.5
9.0
6.0
2.0
Moisturizing rating
6.9
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
4
1
0.3
All humectants 5.3 10
5.3
All humectants
5.3
4
1
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
9
6
2
All occlusives 17.0 20
8.5
All occlusives
17.0
9.0
6.0
2.0
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
None
Total
0
None
Anti-wrinkle rating
0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 0.6 3 No
All antioxidants
0.6
Hydroxyacetophenone
0.3
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
None
All soothing 0 5 No
All soothing
0
None
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %65
Function
Origin
WaterThe most used ingredient in skincare. Its concentration defines the product texture: rich creams may have about 50% of water while a light jelly about 90%. Water doesn’t moisturize the skin by itself and is used in skincare as a solvent for other ingredients.
Dimethicone
Est. %9
Function
Origin
DimethiconeThe most common silicone in skincare. It forms a silky, smooth film on the skin’s surface and can help to prevent water loss. It also aids in wound healing and can treat and soften scars. Dimethicone is considered to be very safe for use.
Phenyl Trimethicone
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Phenyl TrimethiconeA silicone fluid that is used as an occlusive moisturizer. It applies smoothly to the skin and reduces the tack associated with organic oils.
Propanediol
Est. %4
Function
Origin
PropanediolAn excellent solvent capable of mixing water with normally water-insoluble ingredients. It also functions as a humectant due to its water-loving alcohol groups. Propanediol can control the viscosity of a product by reducing its thickness.
Polyphenylsilsesquioxane
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Polyphenylsilsesquioxane
Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin
Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 DimethiconeA silicone-based powerful emulsifier that helps to create lightweight and pleasant feeling lotions and creams.
Trimethylsiloxysilicate
Est. %2
Function
Origin
TrimethylsiloxysilicateAn occlusive moisturizing and emollient silicone resin that smoothes and softens the appearance of the skin. It also protects a product from rinsing away too easily with water, sweat, or friction.
Isododecane
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
IsododecaneAn emollient derived from petroleum with high spreadability. It is often used as a replacement for oils and silicones because it leaves no residue behind on the skin. When a product is labeled as “oil-free” it may contain isododecane instead of heavier oils.
Ethylhexyl Palmitate
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Ethylhexyl PalmitateA rich emollient without the oily after-feel, making it a popular replacement for mineral oil. It is derived from natural sources such as palm oil and palm kernel oil. Ethylhexyl palmitate is listed as a common comedogenic ingredient by acne.org.
Glycerin
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Glycerin

The most popular moisturizing ingredient in the world. It is a powerful humectant – cheap yet very effective.

Polysilicone-11
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polysilicone-11A synthetic rubber-like substance of the silicone family that has no color or distinct scent. These are large molecules that cannot penetrate the skin but instead create a thin silky film on the skin's surface.
Disteardimonium Hectorite
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Disteardimonium HectoriteA clay ingredient that functions primarily as a viscosity controlling agent that thickens all types of formulas. Disteardimonium hectorite imparts a smooth, velvety feel, making it a luxurious addition to any formula.
Magnesium Sulfate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Magnesium SulfateA naturally occurring mineral that is commonly used in skincare products as a bulking agent. It helps to control the viscosity of products by making them thicker.
Quaternium-90 Bentonite
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Quaternium-90 Bentonite
Phenoxyethanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PhenoxyethanolThe most frequently used preservative in skincare. It is a clear, oil-like liquid synthetic substance that protects products from harmful bacteria and yeast, whilst still leaving skin microflora unharmed. It is confirmed by research to be harmless.
Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone CrosspolymerThis ingredient can refer to several kinds of dimethicone crosspolymers. Like other silicones, it makes products feel slippery and non-greasy but can also increase the thickness or improve the water-resistance of a formula.
Polyhydroxystearic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyhydroxystearic AcidA soft and malleable amber wax naturally derived from vegetable sources. It allows minerals to be very finely dispersed, which can improve SPF, decrease the white cast in sunscreens, and increase the color expression in pigmented products.
Triethoxycaprylylsilane
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
TriethoxycaprylylsilaneA binding and coating ingredient that allows pigments like iron oxides and mica to disperse better in oily environments. This leads to more vibrant colors.
Hydroxyacetophenone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
HydroxyacetophenoneAn antioxidant compound that can be found in many plants, although it is manufactured synthetically for skincare purposes. It can boost the preservative action of other conservants.
Tocopheryl Acetate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopheryl Acetate

An antioxidant derivative of tocopherol (vitamin E). It helps to protect cells from free radicals and UV damage through the conversion to active vitamin E in the skin. It is more stable than tocopherol.

Propylene Carbonate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Propylene CarbonateA derivative of propylene glycol that is used most frequently as a solvent. Additionally, propylene carbonate serves as a viscosity controlling agent reducing the thickness of the products it is added to.
Ethylhexylglycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
EthylhexylglycerinA preservative booster derived from glycerin. It is commonly paired with other preservatives to improve their efficacy. Ethylhexylglycerin is also a humectant due to its chemical base of glycerin.
Mica
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
MicaA mineral powder made up of silicates with several functions (the main one being as a colorant). It has a shimmery appearance, making it highly desirable in certain cosmetic products. Mica also helps the product to apply more smoothly.
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)One of two the most commonly used mineral sunscreens. It can absorb UV light, including UVB – which causes burning, tanning, and even skin cancer. Also used as a colorant, titanium dioxide gives a product a bright white color.
Iron Oxides (CI 77492)
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Iron Oxides (CI 77492)Also known as iron (III) oxide, this ingredient is a yellow-colored pigment that can either be derived from minerals or produced synthetically. It adds yellow tones to cosmetic products.